Tribal Contributions
Generous contributions to local schools, community efforts and not-for-profit organizations have generated tremendous local and statewide support, as well as positive newspaper and television coverage. Since 1998, the Prairie Band Potawatomi have given over 6 million dollars in charitable contributions to surrounding communities and organizations. For example, in 2007 some of the contributions include Royal Valley School, Let’s Help, Meals on Wheels, Topeka Fire Department, and Midland Hospice. In 2004, the Prairie Band Potawatomi donated to the Friends of the Zoo for a new eagle habitat. On the national level, major donations were given for national disasters including 911, hurricane and tornado relief. Our contributions tell an exciting story of responsible growth, success and compassion.
One of the keys to our continuing success is developing strong, open relationships with members of the surrounding communities. Following decades of poverty and geographic isolation on our reservation, Indian gaming offers a unique opportunity for growth. By nurturing our connections with outside communities through education, goodwill efforts, and contributions, many non-Indians better understand and support our struggle to maintain sovereignty and unrestricted gaming rights. Other Indian nations across the U.S. share our in commitment to giving. In 2006 NIGA reported that nationwide 20% or $5.14 billion of Indian gaming revenue went to education, children, elders, culture, and charity.
Nearly half of all respondents to the NIGA survey say the primary reasons for tribal giving is "sharing" and "reciprocity." When the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation submitted their allocation plan to the Bureau of Indian Affairs outlining proposed gaming expenditures in accordance with the 1988 Gaming Regulatory Act, they proposed "One percent of all net gaming revenues would be donated to tribal or non-tribal charitable organizations or local government organizations providing services to the Potawatomi Indians." The plan was approved by both the bureau and the general council membership. The new revenue allocation plan approved by tribal membership again will give 1% to charitable contributions.
"Chapters in Time," an introductory publication about the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, states "It is a time to not forget the past but to build upon it." Charitable contributions made possible by gaming offer an opportunity for us to grow forward from our rich and colorful history -- collecting strength and understanding along the way. It challenges us to reach out, encourage public support for Indian self-reliance and secure a promising future for all by continuing to support charitable giving.